Abigail Murphy

20151283
Word Count: 280
Learning Theory:

The role of ICT in education is becoming crucially important. This vital

importance will continue to develop and grow throughout the 21st century. It is
thus important that educators support children’s learning and development of
technological devices and ways of thinking.

The Australian Curriculum makes multiple references to Information and

Communication Technology (ICT) (ACARA, 2014). “ICT capability involves
students learning to make the most of the digital technologies available to
them, adapting to new ways of doing things as technologies evolve and
limiting the risks to themselves and others in a digital environment” (ACARA,
2014). It is therefore vital educators provide their students with access to use
ICT to create and communicate, solve problems and work collaboratively
(ACARA, 2014), so students are able to participate effectively in a
technological advanced society.

ICT in a Early Childhood classroom ‘presents a new space for exploration and
discovery to young children, offers challenging activities and responds to
children's curiosity’ if used appropriately for the best interest of the children’s
learning (Kerckaert, Vanderlinde, van Braak (2015). It is proven that ICT has
a huge effect on children’s learning. Technology offers new opportunities for
children that support learning and development. For example, ICT tools used
in the classroom such as educational apps stimulate children’s creativity and
play. It strengthens their cognitive development and improves social
interaction between peers (Kerckaert, Vanderlinde, van Braak (2015).

The use of ICT is vital in the 21st century classroom environment. ICT in the
classroom has many positive benefits if it is used appropriately and
effectively. When using ICT in a classroom it is vitally important to scaffold the
learning.